MANSFIELD BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES ANNOUNCED

Mansfield, OH -- The city of Mansfield, Ohio will celebrate its Bicentennial year in 2008 with a series of grand festivities beginning in June, 2008. The nation is invited to join the city in activities designed to mark its birthday, with the most significant celebration activities being planned over three consecutive weekends, beginning June 20 and ending July 4th weekend.

Mansfield Bicentennial Celebration includes a Heritage Celebration that will take place at the Richland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 21, 2008. An epic Bicentennial Parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2008, an Ice Cream Social on the town square and other events will culminate on Friday, July 4, 2008 with a “Hands Around the Square” gathering, followed by closing ceremonies.

Mansfield will also host a Gala Concert at the historic Renaissance Theater. Mansfield native and internationally known opera star, Sylvia McNair, will lead a hometown tribute at the Renaissance. A patriotic freedom celebration with music and fireworks will take place at Mansfield Motorsports Park. In addition, landscape plantings and beautification projects are underway to make the city bloom next spring for its colorful birthday party.

Beyond a multitude of special Bicentennial events, Mansfield and Richland County, Ohio offer a wealth of outstanding travel adventures and experiences, including breathtaking scenery and rural and hometown experiences, as well as hiking, biking, golf, cross-country and downhill skiing, bird watching and other outdoor adventures. With a variety of affordable inclusive getaway packages, starting as low as $59 for a winter getaway and $99 for a ski package, visitors can select a customized Mansfield getaway that perfectly matches their tastes and interests. For information or to order a free visitors guide, consumers can call (800) 642-8282 or visit www.mansfieldtourism.com.